ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Unless the context otherwise requires, all references to "we," "us," "our," or the "Company" refer collectively to Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Mid-America Apartments, L.P. Unless the context otherwise requires, all references to “MAA” refers only to Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc., and not any of its consolidated subsidiaries. Unless the context otherwise requires, the references to the “Operating Partnership” or “MAALP” refer to Mid-America Apartments, L.P. together with its consolidated subsidiaries. “Common stock” refers to the common stock of MAA and “shareholders” means the holders of shares of MAA’s common stock. The limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership are referred to as “OP Units” or "common units" and the holders of the OP Units are referred to as “unitholders”.

As of December 31, 2016, MAA owned 113,518,212 OP Units (or approximately 96.4%) of the limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership. MAA conducts substantially all of its business and holds substantially all of its assets through the Operating Partnership, and by virtue of its ownership of the OP Units and being the Operating Partnership's sole general partner, MAA has the ability to control all of the day-to-day operations of the Operating Partnership.

We believe combining the notes to the consolidated financial statements of MAA and MAALP results in the following benefits:


•	enhances a readers' understanding of MAA and the Operating Partnership by enabling the reader to view the business as a whole in the same manner that management views and operates the business;


•	eliminates duplicative disclosure and provides a more streamlined and readable presentation since a substantial portion of the disclosure applies to both MAA and the Operating Partnership.

Management operates MAA and the Operating Partnership as one business. The management of the Company is comprised of individuals who are officers of MAA and employees of the Operating Partnership. We believe it is important to understand the few differences between MAA and the Operating Partnership in the context of how MAA and the Operating Partnership operate as a consolidated company. MAA and the Operating Partnership are structured as an "umbrella partnership REIT," or UPREIT. MAA's interest in the Operating Partnership entitles MAA to share in cash distributions from, and in the profits and losses of, the Operating Partnership in proportion to MAA's percentage interest therein and entitles MAA to vote on substantially all matters requiring a vote of the partners. MAA's only material asset is its ownership of limited partner interests in the Operating Partnership; therefore, MAA does not conduct business itself, other than acting as the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership, issuing public equity from time to time and guaranteeing certain debt of the Operating Partnership. The Operating Partnership holds, directly or indirectly, all of our real estate assets. Except for net proceeds from public equity issuances by MAA, which are contributed to the Operating Partnership in exchange for OP Units, the Operating Partnership generates the capital required by our business through the Operating Partnership's operations, direct or indirect incurrence of indebtedness and issuance of OP units.

The presentation of MAA's shareholders' equity and the Operating Partnership's capital are the principal areas of difference between the consolidated financial statements of MAA and those of the Operating Partnership. MAA's shareholders' equity may include shares of preferred stock, shares of common stock, additional paid-in capital, cumulative earnings, cumulative distributions, noncontrolling interest, preferred units, treasury shares, accumulated other comprehensive income and redeemable common units. The Operating Partnership's capital may include common capital and preferred capital of the general partner (MAA), limited partners' preferred capital, limited partners' noncontrolling interest, accumulated other comprehensive income and redeemable common units. Redeemable common units represent the number of outstanding OP Units as of the date of the applicable balance sheet, valued at the greater of the closing market price of MAA's common stock or the aggregate value of the individual partners' capital balances. Holders of OP Units (other than MAA and its corporate affiliates) may require us to redeem their OP Units from time to time, in which case we may, at our option, pay the redemption price either in cash (in an amount per OP Unit equal, in general, to the average closing price of MAA's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange over a specified period prior to the redemption date) or by delivering one share of our common stock (subject to adjustment under specified circumstances) for each OP Unit so redeemed.

Organization of Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc.

On December 1, 2016, MAA completed its previously announced merger with Post Properties. Pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement"), Post Properties merged with and into MAA, with MAA continuing as the surviving corporation (the "Parent Merger"), and Post LP merged with and into MAALP, with MAALP continuing as the surviving entity (the "Partnership Merger"). We refer to the Parent Merger, together with the Partnership Merger, as the Merger in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, each share of Post Properties common stock was converted into the right to receive 0.71 of a newly issued share of MAA common stock including the right, if any, to receive cash in lieu of fractional shares of MAA common stock. In addition, each limited partner interest in Post LP designated as a "Class A Unit" automatically converted into the right to receive 0.71 of a newly issued partnership unit of MAALP. Also, each share of Post Properties Series A Preferred Stock was automatically converted into the right to receive one newly issued share of MAA's 8.50% Series I Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share, which we refer to as MAA Series I preferred stock. Each newly issued share of MAA Series I preferred stock has the same rights, preferences, privileges, and voting powers as those of the Post Properties Series A preferred stock.

The net assets and results of operations of Post Properties are included in our consolidated financial statements from the closing date, December 1, 2016, through December 31, 2016, the end of our fiscal year. See further discussion surrounding the Merger in Note 2 (Business Combinations) below.

As of December 31, 2016, we owned and operated 302 apartment communities through the Operating Partnership. As of December 31, 2016, MAA also owned a 35.0% interest in an unconsolidated real estate joint venture.

As of December 31, 2016, we had nine development communities under construction totaling 2,816 units, with 700 units completed. Total expected costs for the development projects are $561.8 million, of which $366.5 million had been incurred to date. We expect to complete construction on four projects by the second quarter of 2017, two projects by the fourth quarter of 2017, two projects by the first quarter of 2018, and one project by the third quarter of 2018. Twenty-nine of our multifamily properties include retail components with approximately 601,000 square feet of gross leasable area. We also have four wholly owned commercial properties, which we acquired through the Merger, with approximately 269,000 square feet of gross leasable area.

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared by our management in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC. The consolidated financial statements of MAA presented herein include the accounts of MAA, the Operating Partnership, and all other subsidiaries in which MAA has a controlling financial interest. MAA owns approximately 92.5% to 100% of all consolidated subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements of MAALP presented herein include the accounts of MAALP and all other subsidiaries in which MAALP has a controlling financial interest. MAALP owns, directly or indirectly, 100% of all consolidated subsidiaries. In our opinion, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements have been included, and all such adjustments were of a normal recurring nature. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

We invest in entities which may qualify as variable interest entities, or VIE. A VIE is a legal entity in which the equity investors lack sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or, as a group, the holders of the equity investment at risk lack the power to direct the activities of a legal entity as well as the obligation to absorb its expected losses or the right to receive its expected residual returns. We consolidate all VIEs for which we are the primary beneficiary and use the equity method to account for investments that qualify as VIEs but for which we are not the primary beneficiary. In determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we consider qualitative and quantitative factors, including but not limited to, those activities that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance and which party controls such activities.

Effective January 1, 2016, we adopted ASU 2015-02, Consolidation: Topic 810, which resulted in the Operating Partnership now being classified as a VIE, since the limited partners of both entities lack substantive kick-out rights and substantive participating rights. The adoption of the new standard did not result in the consolidation of entities not previously consolidated or the de-consolidation of any entities previously consolidated. We are the primary beneficiary of, and continue to consolidate, both entities, and there was no material effect on our financial position or results of operations as a result of this adoption. See , "Recent Accounting Pronouncements", below, for further details on the adoption of this standard.

We use the equity method of accounting for our investments in entities for which we exercise significant influence, but do not have the ability to exercise control. The factors considered in determining that we do not have the ability to exercise control include ownership of voting interests and participatory rights of investors. (see "Investment in Unconsolidated Real Estate Joint Ventures", below)

Noncontrolling interests

At December 31, 2016, the Company had two types of noncontrolling interests, (1) noncontrolling interests related to the common unitholders of its Operating Partnership (see note 11) and (2) noncontrolling interests related to its consolidated real estate entities (see "Investment in Consolidated Real Estate Joint Ventures", below).

Use of Estimates

Management has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses to prepare these financial statements and notes in conformity with GAAP. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Revenue Recognition and Real Estate Sales

We primarily lease multifamily residential apartments under operating leases generally with terms of one year or less. Rental revenues are recognized using a method that represents a straight-line basis over the term of the lease and other revenues are recorded when earned. Rental income represents gross market rent less adjustments for concessions, vacancy loss and bad debt.

We record gains and losses on real estate sales in accordance with accounting standards governing the sale of real estate. For sale transactions meeting the requirements for the full accrual method, we remove the assets and liabilities from our Consolidated Balance Sheets and record the gain or loss in the period the transaction closes.

Rental Costs

Costs associated with rental activities, including advertising costs, are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses were approximately $13.0 million, $13.5 million, and $12.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively.

Discontinued Operations

Prior to our January 2014 adoption of ASU No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity, properties sold during the year or those classified as held-for-sale at the end of a reporting period were classified as discontinued operations in accordance with accounting standards governing financial statement presentation. Subsequent to our adoption of this ASU on January 1, 2014, only dispositions representing significant changes in operating strategy are classified as discontinued operations. Once a property is classified as held-for-sale, depreciation is no longer recognized.

Real Estate Assets and Depreciation and Amortization

Real estate assets are carried at depreciated cost. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred while significant improvements, renovations, and recurring capital replacements are capitalized. Recurring capital replacements typically include scheduled carpet replacement, new roofs, HVAC units, plumbing, concrete, masonry and other paving, pools and various exterior building improvements. In addition to these costs, we also capitalize salary costs directly identifiable with renovation work. These expenditures extend the useful life of the property and increase the property’s fair market value. The cost of interior painting, vinyl flooring and blinds are expensed as incurred.

Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related assets which range from 8 to 40 years for land improvements and buildings, 5 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment, and 3 to 5 years for computers and software.

Development Costs

Development projects and the related carrying costs, including interest, property taxes, insurance and allocated direct development salary cost during the construction period, are capitalized and reported in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets as “Development and capital improvements in progress” during the construction period. Interest is capitalized in accordance with accounting standards governing the capitalization of interest. Upon completion and certification for occupancy of individual buildings within a development, amounts representing the completed building's portion of total estimated development costs for the project are transferred to "Land", "Buildings", and "Furniture, fixtures and equipment" as real estate held for investment. Capitalization of interest, property taxes, insurance and allocated direct development salary costs cease upon the transfer. The assets are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Total interest capitalized during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was approximately $2.1 million, $1.7 million, and $1.7 million, respectively. Indirect costs other than interest that we capitalized included capitalized salaries of $0.3 million, $0.4 million, and $1.7 million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and real estate taxes of $0.3 million, $0.2 million, and $0.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Certain costs associated with the lease-up of development projects, including cost of model units, their furnishings, signs, and “grand openings,” are capitalized and amortized over their respective estimated useful lives. All other costs relating to renting development projects are expensed as incurred.

Acquisition of Real Estate Assets

In accordance with accounting standards for business combinations, the fair value of the real estate acquired is allocated to the acquired tangible assets, consisting of land, building, furniture, fixtures and equipment, and identified intangible assets, consisting of the value of in-place leases and other contracts.

We allocate the purchase price to the fair value of the tangible assets of an acquired property determined by valuing the building as if it were vacant, based on management’s determination of the relative fair values of these assets. Management determines the as-if-vacant fair value of a building using methods similar to those used by independent appraisers. These methods include using stabilized net operating income, or NOI, and market specific capitalization and discount rates.

In allocating the fair value of identified intangible assets of an acquired property, the in-place leases are valued based on current rent rates and time and cost to lease a unit. Management concluded that the residential leases acquired in connection with each of its property acquisitions are approximately at market rates since the residential lease terms generally do not extend beyond one year.

For larger, portfolio style acquisitions, like the Merger, management engages a third party valuation specialist to perform the fair value assessment, which includes an allocation of the purchase price. Similar to management's methods, the third party uses cash flow analysis as well as an income approach and a market approach to determine the fair value of assets. The third party uses stabilized NOI and market specific capitalization and discount rates. Management reviews the inputs used by the third party specialist as well as the allocation of the purchase price provided by the third party to ensure reasonableness and that the procedures are performed in accordance with management's policy. The initial allocation of the purchase price is based on management’s preliminary assessment, which may differ when final information becomes available. Subsequent adjustments made to the initial purchase price allocation, if any, are made within the allocation period, which typically does not exceed one year.

For residential leases, the fair value of the in-place leases and resident relationships is then amortized over 6 months, the estimated remaining term of the resident leases. For commercial leases, the fair value of in-place leases and resident relationships is amortized over the remaining term of the commercial leases. The amount of these lease intangibles included in Other assets totaled $42.4 million, $6.1 million, and $8.3 million as of December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. Accumulated amortization for these leases totaled $7.3 million, $2.3 million, and $1.8 million as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The amortization recorded as depreciation and amortization expense was $8.7 million, $5.0 million, and $24.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. The estimated aggregate future amortization expense of in-place leases is approximately $28.7 million, $2.0 million, $1.6 million, $0.8 million, and $0.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively.

Our policy is to expense the costs incurred to acquire properties in the period these costs are incurred. Acquisition costs include appraisal fees, title fees, broker fees, and other legal costs to acquire the property. These costs are recorded in our Consolidated Statement of Operations under the line "Acquisition expenses".

Impairment of Long-lived Assets, including Goodwill

We account for long-lived assets in accordance with the provisions of accounting standards for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets and evaluate our goodwill for impairment under accounting standards for goodwill and other intangible assets. We evaluate goodwill for impairment on at least an annual basis, or more frequently if a goodwill impairment indicator is identified. We periodically evaluate long-lived assets, including investments in real estate and goodwill, for indicators that would suggest that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. The judgments regarding the existence of such indicators are based on factors such as operating performance, market conditions and legal factors.

Long-lived assets, such as real estate assets, equipment and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of are separately presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. The assets and liabilities of a disposed group or a property classified as held for sale are presented separately in the appropriate asset and liability sections of the balance sheet.

Goodwill is tested annually for impairment and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. An impairment loss for goodwill is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill. This determination is made at the reporting unit level and consists of two steps. First, we determine the fair value of a reporting unit and compare it to its carrying amount. In the apartment industry, the primary method used for determining fair value is to divide annual operating cash flows by an appropriate capitalization rate. We determine the appropriate capitalization rate by reviewing the prevailing rates in a property’s market or submarket. Second, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation in accordance with accounting standards for business combinations. The residual fair value after this allocation is the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill. There has been no impairment of goodwill in the three year period ended December 31, 2016.

Goodwill decreased from $1.6 million at December 31, 2015 to $1.2 million at December 31, 2016 as a result of the disposition of the Corners at Crystal Lake apartment community on August 18, 2016. Goodwill decreased from $2.3 million at December 31, 2014 to $1.6 million at December 31, 2015 as a result of the disposition of the Post House Jackson, Post House North, and Oaks apartment communities on April 29, 2015.

Loss Contingencies

The outcomes of claims, disputes and legal proceedings are subject to significant uncertainty. We record an accrual for loss contingencies when a loss is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We review these accruals quarterly and make revisions based on changes in facts and circumstances. When a loss contingency is not both probable and reasonably estimable, we do not accrue the loss. However, if the loss (or an additional loss in excess of the accrual) is at least a reasonable possibility and material, then we disclose a reasonable estimate of the possible loss, or range of loss, if such reasonable estimate can be made. If we cannot make a reasonable estimate of the possible loss, or range of loss, then a statement to that effect is disclosed.

The assessment of whether a loss is probable or a reasonable possibility, and whether the loss or range of loss is reasonably estimable, often involves a series of complex judgments about future events. Among the factors that we consider in this assessment, are the nature of existing legal proceedings and claims, the asserted or possible damages or loss contingency (if reasonably estimable), the progress of the matter, existing law and precedent, the opinions or views of legal counsel and other advisers, our experience in similar matters, the facts available to us at the time of assessment, and how we intend to respond, or have responded, to the proceeding or claim. Our assessment of these factors may change over time as individual proceedings or claims progress. For matters where we are not currently able to reasonably estimate a range of reasonably possible loss, the factors that have contributed to this determination include the following: (i) the damages sought are indeterminate; (ii) the proceedings are in the early stages; (iii) the matters involve novel or unsettled legal theories or a large or uncertain number of actual or potential cases or parties; and/or (iv) discussions with the parties in matters that are expected ultimately to be resolved through negotiation and settlement have not reached the point where we believe a reasonable estimate of loss, or range of loss, can be made. In such instances, we believe that there is considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such matters, including a possible eventual loss or business impact, if any.

Undeveloped Land

Undeveloped land includes sites intended for future multifamily developments, sites for future commercial development and sites intended for residential use, which are carried at the lower of cost or fair value in accordance with GAAP and any costs incurred prior to commencement of pre-development activities are expensed as incurred.

Investment in Unconsolidated Real Estate Joint Ventures

Immediately prior to the effective date of the Merger, Post Properties was an investor in a limited liability company, together with institutional investors that owned one apartment community located in Washington, D.C, or the Apartment LLC. Post Properties had a 35.0% equity interest in this unconsolidated joint venture, which MAA retained immediately following the effectiveness of the Merger and as of December 31, 2016. MAA provides property and asset management services to the Apartment LLC for which it earns fees.

This joint venture was determined to be a variable interest entity, but we are not designated as a primary beneficiary. As a result, we account for our investment in the Apartment LLC using the equity method of accounting as we are able to exert significant influence, but do not have a controlling interest in this joint venture. At December 31, 2016, our investment in the 35.0% owned Apartment LLC totaled $44.5 million.

Investment in Consolidated Real Estate Joint Ventures

In 2015, Post Properties entered into a joint venture arrangement with a private real estate company to develop, construct and operate a 358-unit apartment community in Denver, Colorado. At December 31, 2016, we owned a 92.5% equity interest in the consolidated joint venture. In 2015, this joint venture acquired the land site and initiated the development of the community. The venture partner will generally be responsible for the development and construction of the community and MAA will continue to manage the community upon its completion. This joint venture was determined to be a variable interest entity with us designated as the primary beneficiary. As a result, the accounts of the joint venture are consolidated by us. At December 31, 2016, our consolidated assets, liabilities and equity included construction in progress of $30.0 million, land of $13.4 million, cash and cash equivalents of $0.6 million, and accounts payable and accrued expenses of $6.7 million.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider investments in money market accounts and certificates of deposit with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash consists of security deposits required to be held separately, escrow deposits held by lenders for property taxes, insurance, debt service, and replacement reserves, and exchanges under Section 1031(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code. Section 1031(b) exchanges are treated as investing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred financing costs are amortized over the terms of the related debt using a method which approximates the effective interest method. If the terms of renewed or modified debt instruments are deemed to be substantially different, all unamortized financing costs associated with the modified debt are charged to earnings in the current period. If the terms are not substantially different, the costs associated with the renewal are capitalized and amortized over the remaining term of the debt instrument. For modifications affecting a line of credit, fees paid to a creditor and any third party costs will be capitalized and amortized over the remaining term of the new arrangement. Any unamortized deferred financing costs associated with the old arrangement are either deferred and amortized over the life of the new arrangement or written off, depending upon the nature of the modification and cost. The balance of any unamortized financing costs on extinguished debt is expensed upon extinguishment.

Other Assets

Other assets consist primarily of deferred rental concessions which are recognized on a straight line basis over the life of the leases, receivables and deposits from residents, the value of derivative contracts and other prepaid expenses including prepaid insurance and prepaid interest. Also included in other assets are the fair market value of in place leases and resident relationships, net of accumulated amortization, which totaled $35.0 million and $3.8 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

Accrued expenses consist of accrued dividends payable, accrued real estate taxes, accrued interest payable, accrued loss contingencies, other accrued expenses payable, and unearned income. Significant accruals include accrued dividends payable of $102.4 million and $65.2 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, accrued real estate taxes of $97.6 million and $63.3 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, unearned income of $39.4 million and $25.4 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, accrued legal contingency loss of $42.1 million and $13.5 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and accrued interest payable of $15.2 million and $17.2 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Self-Insurance

We are self-insured for workers' compensation claims up to $500,000 and for general liability claims up to $100,000 for historical MAA properties and up to $200,000 for Post properties. We accrue for expected liabilities less than these amounts based on third party actuarial estimates of ultimate losses. Claims exceeding these amounts are insured by a third party.

Income Taxes

MAA has elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Code, beginning with the taxable year ended December 31, 1994, and intends to continue to operate in such a manner. The current and continuing qualification as a REIT depends on MAA's ability to meet the various requirements imposed by the Code, which are related to organizational structure, distribution levels, diversity of stock ownership and certain requirements with respect to the nature and diversity of MAA’s assets and sources of MAA’s gross income. As long as MAA qualifies for taxation as a REIT, it will generally not be subject to United States federal corporate income tax on its taxable income that is currently distributed to shareholders. This treatment substantially eliminates the “double taxation” (i.e., income taxation at both the corporate and shareholder levels) that generally results from an investment in a corporation.

Even if MAA qualifies as a REIT, MAA may be subject to United States federal income and excise taxes in certain situations, such as if MAA fails to distribute timely all of its taxable income with respect to a taxable year. MAA also will be required to pay a 100% tax on any net income on non- arm’s length transactions between MAA and its TRSs. In addition, MAA also could be subject to the alternative minimum tax. Furthermore, MAA and its shareholders may be subject to state or local taxation in various state or local jurisdictions, including those in which MAA transacts business or its shareholders reside, and the applicable state and local tax laws may not conform to the United States federal income tax treatment. Any taxes imposed on MAA would reduce its operating cash flow and net income.

Certain of our operations and activities, including asset management and risk management, are conducted through TRSs, which are subject to United States federal corporate income tax without the benefit of the dividends paid deduction applicable to REITs.

MAA accounts for deferred taxes of a TRS by recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Based on this evaluation, at December 31, 2016, net of the valuation allowance, the net deferred tax assets were reduced to zero.

MAA recognizes liabilities for uncertain income tax positions based on a two-step process. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step requires MAA to estimate and measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement. MAA classifies interest related to income tax liabilities, and if applicable, penalties, as a component of income tax expense. As of December 31, 2016, MAA did not have any unrecognized tax benefits, and MAA does not believe that there will be any material changes in our unrecognized tax positions over the next 12 months. The income tax expense line item shown in the Statement of Operations represents the Texas-based margin tax for all Texas properties.

Fair value of derivative financial instruments

We utilize certain derivative financial instruments, primarily interest rate swaps and interest rate caps, during the normal course of business to manage, or hedge, the interest rate risk associated with our variable rate debt or as hedges in anticipation of future debt transactions to manage well-defined interest rate risk associated with the transaction.

In order for a derivative contract to be designated as a hedging instrument, changes in the hedging instrument must be highly effective at offsetting changes in the hedged item. The historical correlation of the hedging instruments and the underlying hedged items are assessed before entering into the hedging relationship and on a quarterly basis thereafter, and have been found to be highly effective.

We measure ineffectiveness using the change in the variable cash flows method or the hypothetical derivative method for interest rate swaps and the hypothetical derivative method for interest rate caps for each reporting period through the term of the hedging instruments. Any amounts determined to be ineffective are recorded in earnings if in an overhedged position. The change in fair value of the interest rate swaps and the intrinsic value or fair value of interest rate caps designated as cash flow hedges are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income in the Statement of Equity.

Additionally, the 867,846 shares of Series I Preferred shares issued as consideration in the Merger are redeemable, at the Company's option, on October 1, 2026, and the redemption price per share, $50, is the price at which the preferred stock is redeemable (see Note 10). This redemption feature embedded in the preferred stock was evaluated in accordance with ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and the Company determined that it was required to bifurcate the value associated with this feature from its host instrument, the perpetual preferred shares, and account for it as a freestanding derivative on the balance sheet at fair value as a result of the call option. Thus, the redemption feature embedded in the Series I Preferred shares is reported as a derivative asset in Other assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and will be adjusted to its fair value at each reporting date, with a corresponding adjustment to Other non-property expense.

The valuation of our derivative interest rate swaps and caps are determined using widely accepted valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash payments and the discounted expected variable cash receipts. The variable cash receipts are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves. The fair values of interest rate caps are determined using the market standard methodology of discounting the future expected cash receipts that would occur if variable interest rates rise above the strike rate of the interest rate caps. The variable interest rates used in the calculation of projected receipts on the interest rate cap are based on an expectation of future interest rates derived from observable market interest rate curves and volatilities. Additionally, we incorporate credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both our own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. Changes in the fair values of our in our interest rate and cap derivatives are primarily the result of fluctuations in interest rates.

The derivative asset related to the redemption feature embedded in the Series I Preferred shares issued in connection with the Merger are valued using widely accepted valuation techniques, included discounted cash flow analysis in which the perpetual value of the preferred shares are compared to the value with the call option giving the value of the bifurcated call option as the difference between the two values. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the redeemable preferred shares, redeemable at the Company's option, on October 1, 2026, reflecting the redemption price per share, $50, as the price at which the preferred stock is redeemable. The analysis uses observable market-based inputs, including discount rates based on the REIT preferred stock indices and adjusted based treasury rates to determine the present value of cash flows for the called value and the perpetual value in addition to trading data available on the preferred shares to interpolate an as called value and discount rate and again adjusted from there to determine the perpetual discount rate using the applicable treasury rates.

See Note 7 (Derivative and Hedging Activities) and Note 8 (Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Information) for further discussion.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

The following table provides a brief description of recent accounting pronouncements that could have a material effect on our financial statements:



Standard	Description	Date of Adoption	Effect on the Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters
Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2015-02 , Consolidation (Topic 810)	ASU 2015-02, affects reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. Specifically, the amendments: (i) modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities ("VIEs") or voting interest entities, (ii) eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, (iii) affect the consolidated analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships and (iv) provide a scope exception for certain entities.	This ASU is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2015. We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016.	We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016, and there was no material effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations taken as a whole. While adoption of the new standard did not result in the consolidation of entities not previously consolidated or the de-consolidation of any entities previously consolidated, the Operating Partnership is now classified as a VIE as the limited partners lack substantive kick-out rights and substantive participating rights. Thus, the Company is the primary beneficiary of, and continues to consolidate MAALP.
ASU 2015-16 , Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement -Period Adjustments	This ASU was issued to simplify the accounting for business combinations, specifically as it relates to measurement-period adjustments. Acquiring entities in a business combination must recognize measurement-period adjustments in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. Also, ASU 2015-16 requires entities to present separately on the face of the income statement (or disclose in the notes to the financial statements) the portion of the amount recorded in the current period earnings, by line item, that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date.	This ASU is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2015. We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016.	Adoption of this ASU did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements; however, as noted in Note 2, Business Combinations, we will continue to monitor these adjustments related to the Post Merger as the measurement period remains open for twelve months following the 12/1/16 Merger date.
ASU 2014-16 - Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), Determining Whether the Host Contract in a Hybrid Financial Instrument Issued in the Form of a Share Is More Akin to Debt or to Equity	This ASU clarifies how U.S. GAAP should be applied in determining whether the nature of a host contract in a hybrid financial instrument that is issued in the form of a share is more akin to debt or equity and in evaluating whether the economic characteristics and risks of an embedded feature are "clearly and closely related" to its host contract.	This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after 15 December 2015. We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016.	Upon initial adoption on January 1, 2016, this ASU did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures. However, as a result of the issuance of the MAA Series I preferred stock resulting from the merger on December 1, 2016, we identified a redemption feature embedded in this preferred stock and determined that we were required to bifurcate the value associated with this feature from its host instrument, the preferred shares, and account for it as a freestanding derivative on the balance sheet at fair value as a result of the call option in accordance with this guidance in ASC 815. (See Note 7 and 8 for details and referenced impact to our consolidated financial statements and disclosures).



ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern	This ASU requires an entity's management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. If substantial doubt exists, the entity must disclose the principal conditions or events that raised the substantial doubt, management's evaluation of the significance of these conditions, and management's plan for alleviating the substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern.	This ASU is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016. We adopted this guidance on December 31, 2016.	We adopted this guidance on December 31, 2016, and the adoption of this guidance did not have an impact to the consolidated financial statements or material impact on our disclosures.
ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers	This ASU establishes principles for recognizing revenue upon the transfer of promised goods or services to customers, in an amount that reflects the expected consideration received in exchange for those goods or services as outlined in a five-step model whereby revenue is recognized as performance obligations within a contract are satisfied. Income from lease contracts is specifically excluded from this ASU.	This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, as a result of a deferral of the effective date arising from the issuance of ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Deferral of the Effective Date. Early adoption is permitted.	The amendments may be applied using the full retrospective transition method resulting in adjustments to each prior period presented as of the date of initial application or by using the modified retrospective transition method with a cumulative effect recognized as of the date of initial application. We currently expect to adopt ASU 2014-09 effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective approach. We have identified our revenue streams and are in the process of evaluating the impact on our consolidated financial statements and internal accounting processes; however, the majority of our revenue is derived from real estate lease contracts.
ASU 2016-02, Leases	This ASU amends existing accounting standards for lease accounting and establishes the principles for lease accounting for both the lessee and lessor. The amendment requires an entity to recognize a right-of-use asset and lease liability for all leases with terms of more than 12 months. Recognition, measurement and presentation of expenses will depend on classification as a finance or operating lease. The amendment also requires certain quantitative and qualitative disclosures about leasing arrangements.	This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018; however, early adoption is permitted.	The standard must be adopted using a modified retrospective transition and provides for certain practical expedients. Transition will require application of the new guidance at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented. We are currently evaluating the impact this standard may have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures upon adoption.
ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting	This ASU amends existing accounting standards for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The new guidance will require all income tax effects of awards to be recognized in the income statement when the awards vest or are settled. It also will allow an employer to repurchase more of an employee’s shares than it can today for tax withholding purposes without triggering liability accounting and to make a policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur.	This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016; however, early adoption is permitted.	The standard must be adopted using a modified retrospective transition method, with a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings. We are currently evaluating the impact this standard may have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures upon adoption.
ASU 2016-15, Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force)	This ASU clarifies how several specific cash receipts and cash payments are to be presented and classified on the statement of cash flows, including debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs, settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments, contingent consideration made after a business combination, distributions received from equity method investees, beneficial interests in securitization transactions, and separately identifiable cash flows and application of predominance principle.	This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted.	Each amendment in this standard must be applied prospectively, retrospectively, or as of the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the year of adoption, depending on the type of amendment. We expect to adopt ASU 2016-15 as of January 1, 2018, and we are currently evaluating the impact this standard may have on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.



ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230):Restricted Cash (A Consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)	This ASU requires restricted cash to be presented with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning and ending amounts in the statements of cash flows.	This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted.	The update should be applied retrospectively to each period presented. We expect to adopt ASU 2016-15 as of January 1, 2018. We currently report the change in restricted cash within the investing activities in our consolidated statement of cash flows. If we were to early adopt in 2017, cash and cash equivalents reported in our consolidated statements of cash flows would increase by approximately $88.3 million and $26.1 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively, to reflect the restricted cash balances. Additionally, net cash used in investing activities would increase by $58.3 million in 2016 and decrease by $8 thousand in 2015.
ASU 2017-01, Clarifying the Definition of a Business (Topic 805)	This ASU clarifies the definition of a business and provides further guidance for evaluating whether a transaction will be accounted for as an acquisition of an asset or a business.	This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted.	The update should be applied prospectively. We adopted ASU 2017-01 as of January 1, 2017 and the adoption did not require any additional disclosures. We believe most of our future acquisitions of operating properties will qualify as asset acquisitions and most future transaction costs associated with these acquisitions will be capitalized.